When designing sustainable homes and commercial buildings, having an area that is energy and cost efficient with good indoor air quality and controlled moisture must also be sound-proof for a totally comfortable environment. One of the critical elements in high performance residential and commercial building construction is featuring the principle of thermal and moisture protection.…
Roofing
When it comes to fire and building components, the roof is one of the most vulnerable parts and is generally the first thing to ignite, especially in fire-prone areas. This is why Underwriters Laboratories Inc., a non-profit organization, continuously evaluates and certifies the capacity of roofing material and related systems to resist flames. This testing…
Just as there is a wide assortment of material available for roofing, there is an equally wide assortment of roofing insulation. Although it may seem as if any type will do, this is not correct. Insulation must be chosen according to function as well as in conjunction with the type of roof and material used.…
Many know that having a roof installed is a time-consuming, expensive part of home maintenance. With the fluctuation in prices, material and labor, it can become a veritable maintenance nightmare. Finding the right roofing company is essential to ensure the best job is done; however, after a project has been completed, the main challenge begins…
A roof can be constructed from various components such as fiber, clay, metal, wood, stone, and ceramic to name a few; choice can be based on personal tastes and preferences. It is also important to be aware of the various protective layers available that can provide strength, durability, and advanced lifetime protection. Recently, new protective…
Garden roofs or green roofs have been gaining in popularity as environmental awareness increases. At first thought, it may seem a radical idea when in reality, it can be a great way to utilize otherwise wasted space. The benefits of this kind of project are much more substantial than simply growing flowers and vegetation. With…
With so many roofing options available from which to choose, it can be hard to decide which is best; it can greatly depend on the location, climate, and budget. Metal has proven its worth over the years since it is durable and has a long service life; it is actually seeing a resurgence in popularity…
Roof coatings can be classified into two groups: traditional material such as asphalt emulsions, asphalt cutbacks, and acrylics; and the more modern fluid-applied, stand-alone membranes. The major difference is the degree of permeability and how well each type protects the covered material. There are many important reasons to use these coatings, not least of which…
Even though asphalt shingles have long been a staple in building construction, they are not necessarily the most attractive. Asphalt shingles are often rather plain when when offering a neat and tidy appearance when kept in good condition. Form, function and cost effectiveness often override style; however, if interested in adding style, ceramic or cement…
With growing awareness about recycling, energy efficiency and other methods of going “green,” the construction industry has begun to embrace these ideas as well. Roofing contractors are changing methods to both please customers and make a positive impact on the environment. There are newer techniques in energy reduction, both in the building process itself and…